Govt Orders Smartphone Makers to Preload Sanchar Saathi Cybersecurity App on all New Devices
India’s Telecom Ministry has issued a private directive requiring all new smartphones sold in the country to come with the government’s Sanchar Saathi cybersecurity app pre-installed. The app, which cannot be removed by users, must be embedded within 90 days, a move that could lead to conflict with Apple and privacy groups.
Key Takeaways
- Mandatory Preloading: All new smartphones must have the Sanchar Saathi app pre-installed within 90 days.
- Non-Removable App: Users will not be able to uninstall the government cybersecurity tool.
- Major Impact: The order covers Apple, Samsung, Vivo, Oppo, and Xiaomi.
- Proven Track Record: The platform has already helped recover 700,000 stolen phones and blocked 3.7 million devices.
The 90-Day Directive
According to a report by Reuters, the ministry’s order, dated November 28, was circulated privately to select manufacturers. It gives major smartphone companies 90 days to ensure the Sanchar Saathi app is embedded in all new handsets. For devices already in the supply chain, firms must push the app via over-the-air software updates.
Sanchar Saathi’s Success Against Cybercrime
Launched in January for India’s 1.2 billion-plus mobile subscribers, the Sanchar Saathi platform has become a key tool against telecom fraud. Official data reveals impressive results:
- Recovered over 700,000 lost or stolen phones (50,000 in October 2025 alone).
- Blocked more than 3.7 million devices flagged as stolen.
- Enabled the termination of over 30 million fraudulent mobile connections.
The platform allows users to verify IMEI numbers, report suspicious calls, and block stolen devices through a centralised system designed to curb scams involving duplicate or spoofed identifiers. Authorities call it essential to combat a “serious endangerment” to national telecom cybersecurity.
Potential Clash with Apple and Privacy Concerns
The mandate’s requirement for a non-removable, pre-installed government app is its most contentious aspect. It places India alongside jurisdictions like Russia with similar state-backed digital service rules.
The move is likely to antagonise Apple specifically. A source familiar with Apple’s operations stated that the company’s internal policies prohibit the pre-installation of third-party or government apps on devices before sale. This sets the stage for a potential confrontation, reminiscent of Apple’s past dispute with India’s telecom regulator over a mandatory anti-spam app. Privacy advocates are also expected to raise concerns over mandatory software.
